Rebekah Ramer writes a card for a Troop Care Package (above) while Shia Silverman and Noah Goldfaden (below) pack Bags of Hope on B’nai Torah Congregation’s Mitzvah Day in 2025. The 2026 Mitzvah Day is Nov. 8. Photos provided
B’nai Torah Congregation hosts the annual Mitzvah Day with the Meryl and Ron Gallatin Tzedakah, Learning & Chesed Program from 9 a.m. to noon Nov. 8.
In 2025, more than 1,500 people participated is this meaningful morning of service that brings together more than 20 local community organizations with hands-on volunteer opportunities for all ages and interests — from giving a pint of blood to sandwich-making to flower arranging to packing care packages.
TeenLC and SeniorTech volunteers provide hands-on tech help for folks with technology questions and Happy Human hosts a pop-up shop offering free clothing and footwear for underserved children and adults.
The activities take place at B’nai Torah Congregation, 6261 SW 18th St., Boca Raton, where refreshments and a live DJ will keep the energy high throughout the event. For more info and to register, visit btcboca.org/event/mitzvah-day-2026/.
St. Lucy’s to host flag retirement ceremony
Father Brian Horgan will lead an official “Flag Retirement Service and Ceremony” at 11 a.m. Nov. 8 at St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3510 S. Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach. Sometimes called a Ceremony for Disposal of Unserviceable Flags or Ceremony of Final Tribute, this solemn event includes refreshments after the service.
Anyone with an old/worn/used flag is asked to bring it to the event. All active and retired service members are requested to dress in their military uniforms. A reception will follow for all in the parish center. Questions? Call the church at 561-278-1280.
Temple Beth El sets panel talk on ’normal’ substances
As the holiday season with its parties and celebrations approaches, Temple Beth El’s Schafer Campus hosts a panel discussion and conversation about mood-altering substances we consider “normal” in society — caffeine, nicotine, alcohol and more — and when social use crosses the line to misuse.
“Asking for a Friend” takes place from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Nov. 8. It’s chaired by Jill Swimmer with panel members Andrea Pittell, LCSW; Adam L. Saslov, LMHC PA; John Puls, LCSW, MCAP; and Sari Sheiner, SLP. It includes breakfast provided by the Temple Beth El Brotherhood. The campus is at 333 SW Fourth Ave., Boca Raton.
Topics include knowing when “just social” becomes something more; how to have open, judgment-free conversations; and recognizing signs of abuse.
The event is free but registration is required at tbeboca.org/event/asking-for-a-friend-where-social-use-ends-misuse-begins-panel-discussion/.
St. Gregory’s Fall Bazaar offers shopping, deals
St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church Women will host their annual Fall Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 14 at the church, 100 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton. Harris Hall and the courtyard will become a shopping hot spot with the YAYA Eco-Chic Boutique featuring stylish, sustainable finds; a garage sale section with deals on housewares and décor; and a selection of artwork and seasonal items. There’s also a thrift store section with unique finds. Call 561-395-8285 or visit stgregorysepiscopal.org/.
Boca set for interfaith Thanksgiving event
The Boca Raton Interfaith Clergy Association and St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church will host their annual Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, A Celebration of Gratitude, Faith & Community, at 7 p.m. Nov. 16 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1530 W. Camino Real, Boca Raton. A meaningful evening of gratitude, unity and connection is planned as friends and neighbors from diverse faith traditions come together to celebrate and give thanks.
The event features inspirational messages and teachings from local faith leaders, and small group table discussions exploring our common values. Teens from the Boca Raton Interfaith Youth Association will participate. Families are encouraged to bring a food box of nonperishable items to donate to Boca Helping Hands’ Thanksgiving Box Brigade. Refreshments and fellowship follow. For more information, visit BRICA’s Facebook page at facebook.com/BRICAInterfaith.
St. Paul’s to host multifaith Thanksgiving service
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church hosts the annual Delray Beach Thanksgiving Service at 7 p.m. Nov. 17 at the church, 188 S. Swinton Ave. This interfaith community gathering has a theme of “United by Love.”
The keynote speaker will be the Rev. Corinna “Cori” Olson, co-president of People Engaged in Active Community Efforts, or PEACE, and will include hymns sung by St. Paul’s Chancel Choir and the Temple Sinai Choir.
The service is led by clergy from St. Paul’s, Jesus Lounge Ministry, Temple Sinai of Palm Beach County and the Islamic Center of Boca Raton, and will feature prayers and blessings offered by Christians, Jews and Muslims. For more information, visit stpaulsdelray.org or call 561-276-4541.
Temple’s Fall Market Boutique set for Nov. 19
Temple Beth El hosts its annual Fall Market Boutique from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 19 on the Beck Campus in the Early Learning Center at 9800 Yamato Road, Boca Raton. Shop a variety of local small businesses for women’s and children’s apparel, accessories, jewelry, Judaica, sweets and more. Don’t miss the raffle. Tickets are $5 in advance, $8 at the event. Registration is requested at tbeboca.shulcloud.com/event/fall-market-2026. More info: 561-391-8900 or tbeboca.org/
Worship Night offers chance to learn more about church
Connected Life Christian Church, 2500 NW Fifth Ave., Boca Raton, is hosting a special Worship Night at 7 p.m. Nov. 20 to welcome people who want to know more about the church. It’s also planning a Christmas Talent Show and Cookie Exchange on Dec. 12. A batch of cookies is the price of admission to participate in the festive event. Call 561-395-4901 or visit connectedlifecc.com.
18th annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk offers fun for all
Every year on Thanksgiving Day, the Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk gets the community out to run, walk or stroll to benefit family and children’s services at the Levis JCC. The race begins at 7:30 a.m. Nov. 26 and features a Youth 1 Mile Fun Run.
All runners will enjoy refreshments following the race. Everything takes place at South County Regional Park, 12551 Glades Road, Boca Raton. Fees for the 5K are $40 until Nov. 15, $45 Nov. 16-25 and $50 on race day for ages 11 and older. Ages 10 and younger: $30 until Nov. 15, $35 Nov. 16-25 and $40 race day. Register at levisjcc.org/wellness/turkeytrot/.
All invited to Thanksgiving meal at St. Gregory’s
The Meals with Meaning ministry at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, 100 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton, is hosting its annual Thanksgiving Day Community Meal from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26. Everyone is welcome to a free Thanksgiving meal, plus they’ll have prizes and giveaways. Contact Gena Vallee at 561-395-8285 or visit mealswithmeaning.org.
— Janis Fontaine
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